"Well then, I'll be going now, Margaret," Merlin said, slowly rising from his chair.
Margaret stood as well. "I'll walk you out."
Merlin immediately shook his head. "No need. I can manage on my own."
"But…"
Before Margaret could finish, Merlin smiled reassuringly. "I appreciate your concern, but it's really not necessary. I can go by myself. You don't need to trouble yourself."
Margaret let out a soft sigh and didn't insist. She reached into her pocket and pulled out a gold-colored card.
"Take this as a token of our friendship," she said quietly.
Merlin accepted the card and examined it. It was stiff and solid, with an image of a black ship and five stars engraved at the bottom.
On all four sides were wavelike engravings, reminiscent of the sea—beautiful and mesmerizing. Merlin froze instantly, his heart starting to race.
"An exclusive Beethoven family card?" he exclaimed in shock.
